Archive | Sweden

As a kid it always seemed a bit crazy yet exciting and invigorating to get up so early on December 13, one of the shortest, darkest days of the year, just for breakfast. In fact, it always seemed dreamy and surreal. As a child my family celebrated Santa Lucia with some good family friends every year.

Our dear Swedish family friend recounts living as a 6-year-old with her grandparents in a small Swedish town. Her grandparents lived above the family-run konditori so she woke to the smell of Kanelbullar {Swedish Cinnamon Buns} and other pastries.

Pytt i Panna {little bits in a pan}, is basically a Swedish hash comprised of piping hot bits of fried meat, potatoes and onion. Though variations abound, the dish is a lesson on how sometimes the simplest lists of ingredients can produce a comforting, flavorful meal.

Limpa bread is a traditional Swedish rye bread that is flavored with anise seed, molasses and sometimes orange. When I was little, my family was lucky enough to have a friend who would bake us this bread on occasion, introducing me to its rich, intoxicating flavor.

These little pastry muffins filled with applesauce are like a cross between apple pie and apple cake. They are perfect for a sweet breakfast or an afternoon snack. I like to serve them warm, fresh from the oven.